The Assessor is charged with establishing the full and fair value of each parcel of real property in the Township. Full and fair value is defined, as the price property would sell for at a fair and bona fide sale by private contract.

Though the value of real property affects the amount of taxes paid on it, the taxes paid are determined by the budget needs of the school system, county government and the municipality. In other words, the tax is based on the millage rate, which is determined by dividing the government¹s budget needs by the value of all the taxable property in the municipality.

Therefore, the assessor determines the taxability of each parcel, not the taxes.

Assessors also process and approve claims for deductions and exemptions.

Senior citizen deductions are based on age and income. Disabled citizens must be totally disabled and also meet income requirements.

Veteran deductions are granted to those honorably discharged or released under honorable conditions from "active wartime service".

Deductions and/or exemptions are not automatic and must be applied for.